Newt Gingrich Speaks at Mercer University

Date: April 10, 2008

Location: Macon, GA

Center Founder Newt Gingrich spoke during a dinner at Mercer University’s Macon, GA campus on April 10.  Gingrich addressed the University’s Executive Forum, a group of business professionals, on a wide variety of issue topics, focusing on the idea that a fundamental change is necessary at all levels.

Gingrich specifically talked about the changing problem of diabetes, once considered mainly a middle-aged disease, but now seen with more frequency in overweight children.  Stating that diabetes is, in essence, a cultural problem, Gingrich suggested several ways to address obesity in children.  Proposals included mandatory physical education five days a week, beginning in kindergarten, taking junk food out of school vending machines and cafeterias, and encouraging students who live close to their schools to walk.